I’m a chief people officer, and here are my tips on how to ask about a company's AI policies in a job interview
A chief people officer shares tips on how job seekers can ask about AI policies and expectations during interviews, without coming across as anti-AI.
Meredith Hawkins, the Chief People Officer at GoTo, offers valuable advice for job seekers who wish to inquire about a company's AI policies during an interview. In an as-told-to essay, Hawkins emphasizes that asking thoughtful questions about AI can demonstrate a candidate's preparedness, curiosity, and strategic thinking. According to a GoTo survey, 83% of workers are concerned about being held accountable for AI errors, highlighting the importance of clear policies in the workplace.
Hawkins suggests starting with genuine curiosity and explaining the motivation behind the question. By framing the inquiry as a way to gather information, learn about the company, and understand its culture, candidates can showcase their growth mindset. Following the initial curiosity, candidates can then transition to broader questions about the extent of AI usage within the company, its primary focus, and employees' expectations.
The interviewer's response will provide an opportunity to inquire further about the company's AI policies, the distinctions between acceptable and unacceptable AI usage, and how the company safeguards employee data. By acknowledging the significance of AI in today's job market, candidates can convey their readiness to engage with the technology while demonstrating their desire to work in an environment with well-defined guidelines.
As trust and transparency are essential in any relationship, Hawkins recommends that job seekers expect to learn about a company's AI policies from the outset of their interaction. Companies like GoTo have implemented guidelines on how their talent-acquisition team uses AI, acceptable use, and expectations for candidates regarding AI applications in resumes and interviews.
They have also established boundaries on AI usage, data protection, and employee privacy. By training managers to reinforce these expectations during the first 90 days of employment, organizations can foster engaged employees who feel secure and capable of performing their best work.
Written by urgent.news from Business Insider's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
